Does My Property Need A Retaining Wall?

When considering upgrades to your home's exterior, why not think about having a retaining wall built? Retaining walls come in a variety of styles and materials, such as concrete, wood, brick, and stone.

Some of the benefits of installing a retaining wall include:

• Providing support in order to prevent earth from being forced downhill with erosion
• Improving functionality by leveling off an area
• Reducing the speed of water runoff, this protects your lawn and garden
• Creating curb appeal
• Preventing damage to property and surrounding striations (because of flooding and erosion)

Your property is in need of a retaining wall if:

• Your home's foundation is threatened by a sliding hill
• Your yard is sloped and is at risk for downhill erosion
• Your property is difficult to landscape because it is sloped
• Your yard needs a focal point
• You want to add style to your yard
• You would like to create additional gardening space with an uneven yard or patio

You can choose something simple for retaining a small flower bed or something on a grander scale such as a walkway that curves along the perimeter of the property with a retaining wall guiding it. The possibilities are limitless. If you're in Northwest Indiana or the Chicago Southland, contact Forest Landscaping at 708-516-4619 or online at www.forestlandscapinginc.com for more information.

What Are The Benefits Hardscaping My Property?

Is your beautifully landscaped yard missing something? Whatever the style of your home, there is a natural stone or paver that will compliment your property. One of the advantages to having hardscaping professionally installed is that it adds interest and increases the aesthetics of your home without the amount of care a lawn and greenery require. Hardscapes include walkways, walls, fences, gazebos, fountains, or any non-living element.

Some advantages of hardscaping include:

• Hardscapes reduce the likelihood of property erosion.
• They are low maintenance and perfect for people with a busy schedule who don't have the time to maintain a yard. 
• Hardscapes serve as the framework for softscape elements.
• Hardscaping improves accessibility to other outdoor areas.
• Perfect for those who do not have a "green thumb." 
• Hardscaping designs can be timeless. 
• Adds functionality, such as an outdoor kitchen, relaxing patio, play area, zen garden, etc.
• Increases property value.
• Professionally installed hardscaping is visually appealing.

The benefits of hardscaping are endless. For more information on professionally installed hardscaping in Northwest Indiana and the Chicago Southland, contact Forest Landscaping at 708-516-4619 or online at www.forestlandscapinginc.com.